TITLE
title
Authorization to Transfer Trail Counters Purchased by Hernando/Citrus Metropolitan Planning Organization to State Department of Transportation
body
BRIEF OVERVIEW
On June 6, 2024, the Hernando/Citrus Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) approved the attached agreement to transfer trail counters to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Four trail counters were purchased by the MPO in 2021 to collect data for reporting purposes on trail usage and the cost was reimbursed at 100% by FDOT. Unfortunately, one trail counter was stolen (Asset ID 22689), an insurance claim was filed, and proceeds were received. The Federal Highway Administration and FDOT will advise the MPO on the disposition of the handling of the insurance proceeds.
In reviewing the program and the intent of the data collection activities, and pursuant to discussions with our partners at FDOT, it was determined that it would be in the best interests of the program if FDOT managed the trail counters and was responsible for the operating and maintenance costs. The Hernando County Department of Public Works indicated that they could not utilize the trail counters in their operations.
The attached Non-Motorized Traffic Monitoring Program Equipment Transfer Memorandum of Agreement outlines that FDOT will obtain ownership of the counters, retrieve and assimilate data for the use by the FDOT, Hernando/Citrus MPO, Hernando County, and the public for bicycle/pedestrian planning, and be responsible for the associated operating and maintenance costs.
On March 28, 2024, the MPO’s Technical Advisory Committee, Citizens Advisory Committee, and Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee conducted public meetings and voted to recommend the MPO Board approve the transfer of bicycle trail counters to FDOT. On May 29, 2024, the trail counters were inventoried by the Clerk’s Office.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Responsibility of the ownership, operating and maintenance costs will be that of the Florida Department of Transportation.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board has the authority to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
recommendation
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the Board authorize the transfer of the three (3) existing trail counters, Asset ID #22686, #22687, and #22688 to the Florida Department of Transportation to be utilized for their intended purpose in the bicycle/pedestrian program.